Peace Garden News

Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota (BCBSND) Caring Foundation partners with North Dakota hockey teams in a new initiative to address mental health stigma. The program, named "Shut Out the Stigma," involves donations by BCBSND for the first 20 saves of each home game by selected teams to FirstLink, a nonprofit offering mental health support and crisis intervention.

The hockey teams participating in this initiative are the Bismarck Bobcats, University of North Dakota Fighting Hawks, Fargo Force, and Minot Minotauros. The donations aim to support FirstLink’s services, which include a 24-hour helpline, crisis intervention programs, and mental health training. This effort endeavors to bolster mental health support across North Dakota, helping to "keep hope on the line."

Amber Blomberg, BCBSND Foundation and Community Engagement Executive Director, stated, "It's important to remember that mental health is just as crucial as physical health. By teaming up with our North Dakotan hockey teams, we aim to not only raise donations for FirstLink’s services but also bring our community together through the love of hockey. Let's shut out the stigma and achieve better mental health together."

Research indicates a significant mental health provider shortage in North Dakota. As of August 2022, over 355,000 residents live in areas lacking mental health support. Rural counties and reservation areas are notably affected, with many adults reporting poor mental health. Investment in FirstLink is expected to fund critical phone calls and follow-up care for individuals needing mental health support.

Further information on the initiative and related studies can be accessed at bcbsnd.com/caring foundation.

Established in 1989, the BCBSND Caring Foundation is a private charitable organization focused on improving health and well-being in North Dakota.